NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Practical Gardening

This Level 1 Practical Gardening course will teach skills including:

• Developing skills in garden horticulture
• Sowing and growing techniques
• Cultivating compost and soils
• Cultivating herbs

This qualification is assessed on an ongoing basis, rather than through end-of-year exams. Throughout the course, you will produce a portfolio of evidence that is internally assessed by your tutors and externally quality-assured.

This course is designed for those looking to gain practical gardening skills who may not have any professional experience. The course is ideal for the home gardener, as well as individuals looking to pursue a career in horticulture who prefer a hands-on approach to learning.

There are no formal entry requirements for study. Applications for this course will be reviewed by Winterbourne House and Garden’s Horticultural education team, who may invite you for an in-person conversation to ensure the course you have applied for meets your experience and aligns with what you hope to achieve from studying with us.

The skills, knowledge and understanding gained on this vocational skills qualification may help you to prepare for working life beyond education through real or simulated work situations.

Successful completion of the Level 1 Certificate in Practical Gardening can lead on to further study, such as the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture, or Principles of Plant Growth and Development

The practical gardening course is taught by tutors from Rudge Wood Horticulture CIC.

Get to know Darren and Helen

Darren Rudge is a respected horticultural educator, designer and broadcaster. With a career spanning over three decades, Darren has taught countless students in vocational and community settings. He is also known for his media work, sharing expert advice on BBC radio and beyond.

As a Professional Associate for RHS Qualifications, Darren examines and verifies practical qualifications nationally, ensuring the next generation of horticulturalists meet the highest standards. Alongside this, he runs a successful garden design consultancy, working with landscapers and contractors to create innovative outdoor spaces.

Helen Wood brings a wealth of expertise in horticulture, teaching and assessment. Since 2014, Helen has worked with RHS Qualifications as a Professional Associate, where she plays a key role in marking, setting exam papers, and leading the Level 2 theory team.

Her passion for education and community-led projects has shaped the development of inclusive training and horticultural initiatives. Through her consultancy, Helen supports individuals, organisations and communities to design and sustain accessible green spaces that bring long-term benefits.

When studying at Winterbourne, you will receive tuition from horticultural industry experts, as well as additional support from Winterbourne’s team of gardeners and a dedicated Learning Officer. You will be taught in our purpose-built education building, the Winterbourne Centre for Horticulture, and throughout the course you will practise your skills in our fantastic teaching garden, potting shed, and other outdoor facilities.

All students studying at Winterbourne will receive a Learner Membership to the house and garden throughout their studies. You are also eligible to apply for RHS student membership.

As a member of Rudge Wood’s learning community, you have the opportunity to develop links with horticultural employers.

Students studying at Winterbourne House and Garden are not classified as University of Birmingham students and therefore do not have access to the university’s general student support and benefits.